After losing his Ottawa seat, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre will run in a by-election in Alberta’s Battle River-Crowfoot riding, following MP Damien Kurek’s decision to temporarily step down. The move aims to restore Poilievre’s presence in the House of Commons as the Conservatives hold the Official Opposition.
Alberta MP Steps Aside to Reopen Path for Poilievre
In a significant development for the Conservative Party, Damien Kurek, the newly re-elected MP for Battle River-Crowfoot, announced he will resign his Alberta seat to allow party leader Pierre Poilievre to run in a forthcoming by-election. Kurek, who secured over 80% of the vote in Monday’s election, described the decision as a selfless act to ensure Poilievre can return to Parliament and hold the Liberal minority government accountable.
Poilievre’s Defeat in Ottawa Leaves Party Leader Seatless
Poilievre lost his long-held Ottawa-area riding of Carleton by a narrow margin, ending his nearly 20-year tenure there. Despite the loss, he remains Conservative leader, but without a seat in the House of Commons. The move to run in Alberta, where Poilievre has deep roots, offers a clear path back to Parliament.
Support and Strategy Behind the Move
Kurek emphasized the growing momentum behind Poilievre’s leadership and the importance of having him actively represent the party in the House. He plans to run again in Battle River-Crowfoot in the next general election after temporarily stepping aside. Poilievre expressed gratitude on social media, praising Kurek’s “selfless act” and pledging to earn the trust of the riding’s constituents.
By-Election Timing and Political Implications
Prime Minister Mark Carney has committed to calling the by-election promptly once Kurek resigns, aiming to minimize the time Poilievre is absent from Parliament. However, this means Poilievre will miss the opening of the new parliamentary session later this month. The by-election campaign is expected to conclude before the fall sitting begins in September.
Party Dynamics and Future Outlook
While many Conservatives rally behind Poilievre, some prominent figures have criticized his leadership and campaign strategy. The party faces internal reflection as it prepares for the next phase, with Poilievre’s return to the House marking a pivotal moment for the Official Opposition.
Would you like an overview of Battle River-Crowfoot’s political history or insights into how Poilievre’s return might reshape Conservative strategy?
